The Hidden Link Between Diabetes and Rapid Biological Aging

Researchers have long viewed diabetes not only as a metabolic disorder but also as a condition closely linked to the mechanisms of biological aging. Scientists note that its chronic progression affects nearly every system in the body, producing changes typical of age-related processes — only developing at a faster pace.

The Director of the Russian Gerontology Research and Clinical Center at Pirogov University, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor and Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences Olga Tkacheva, explained how these processes form and what modern science reveals.

Why Diabetes Affects the Entire Body

Researchers emphasize that diabetes is associated with chronically elevated glucose levels and a condition known as insulin resistance. These factors create conditions in which the inner structures of cells experience overload. Processes related to oxidative stress, disrupted energy metabolism, and altered functioning of genetic material begin to appear.

"Chronic hyperglycemia and insulin resistance trigger a chain of pathological processes — from oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction to telomere shortening, epigenetic disturbances, and low-grade inflammation. Together they form the 'metabolism-inflammation-aging' sequence that drives premature wear of organs and systems," the expert explained.

This sequence describes the connection between cellular dysfunction and gradual changes within organs that resemble natural aging yet may develop more rapidly, reports Gazeta.Ru.

Comparing Diabetes' Impact on Different Organs

Step-by-Step Insights: What Science Shows About These Processes

• Scientific publications examine chronic hyperglycemia as a factor that affects cellular metabolism.
• Mitochondrial health plays a crucial role because it drives energy processes.
• Researchers study telomeres — chromosome segments associated with cellular aging.
• Epigenetic changes are viewed as a potential link between environmental influences and gene activity.
• Low-grade inflammation is highlighted as a marker of a slowed regulatory response.
• Scientists analyze these mechanisms as an interconnected system.

Experts use these data to assess risk factors and evaluate the biological changes associated with diabetes.